If you’re craving a dish that bursts with Mediterranean sunshine and flavors that feel like a warm hug, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe. Imagine juicy, tender chicken meatballs infused with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, paired with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that brings just the right amount of tang and freshness. It’s a heartfelt combination that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve friends and family. This recipe is a delightful celebration of Greek flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe, you only need a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly spectacular. Each element plays a vital role, from the tender ground chicken that forms the base to the herbs and lemon zest that elevate the taste and aroma.
- Ground chicken: The lean protein foundation that keeps the meatballs light but flavorful.
- Breadcrumbs: They add just enough binding and texture without weighing down the meatballs.
- Egg: Helps hold the meatballs together so they don’t fall apart during cooking.
- Red onion: Finely chopped to add a gentle sweetness and crunch.
- Garlic: Gives a robust, savory depth to both meatballs and tzatziki.
- Fresh dill: A classic Greek herb that infuses the dish with its signature taste.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the flavor with its clean, fresh notes.
- Dried oregano: Adds an earthy, authentic Mediterranean touch.
- Lemon zest: Bursts of citrusy brightness that uplift every bite.
- Olive oil: Essential for cooking the meatballs and enriching the tzatziki sauce.
- Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base of the homemade tzatziki that provides cool contrast.
- Cucumber: Grated and dried, it adds refreshing crunch and moisture to the sauce.
- Lemon juice: Balances the creaminess with vibrant acidity in the tzatziki.
- Salt and pepper: Everyday seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
Start by combining ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh dill, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat, or you’ll end up with tough meatballs. Shape the mixture into 16 small, even meatballs for perfect cooking and presentation.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning them occasionally so they brown nicely on all sides and cook through to an internal temperature of 165°F. If you prefer baking, place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes. Either method yields juicy, flavorful meatballs with a golden crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Homemade Tzatziki
While the meatballs are cooking, whisk together Greek yogurt, grated and well-drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh dill, and salt in a small bowl. Give it a taste and adjust the salt or lemon juice to your liking. Chill the tzatziki in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, so the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce stays refreshingly cool.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or an extra pinch of dill over the meatballs can add a gorgeous burst of green and fresh flavor just before serving. A little drizzle of olive oil or a wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add their own zing.
Side Dishes
These meatballs shine brightly alongside fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp Mediterranean salad loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Roasted vegetables or a simple lemony quinoa also pair wonderfully and keep with the fresh, light spirit of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this into a fun meal by serving Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe pita-style, layered with fresh veggies like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions tucked inside warm pita pockets. Alternatively, skewering the meatballs and serving them as appetizers with mini tzatziki bowls makes for an inviting party platter that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the tzatziki separately to preserve its fresh, cool texture and prevent it from becoming watery.
Freezing
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe freeze beautifully. Freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. You can also freeze cooked meatballs the same way. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Note that fresh tzatziki sauce is best made fresh, so prepare it after defrosting your meatballs.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the meatballs in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it may dry out the chicken. Serve fresh tzatziki sauce on the side for maximum flavor and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute and will still deliver moist, flavorful meatballs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can dry out if overcooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Otherwise, standard breadcrumbs contain gluten, so choose based on your dietary needs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tzatziki sauce up to a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
What can I add for a little extra spice?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili to the tzatziki. It adds a surprising but delicious kick that pairs perfectly with the cool sauce.
Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! They hold up well in the fridge and freeze nicely. These meatballs are perfect for making ahead and enjoying as quick lunches or dinners throughout the week with minimal fuss.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe — a perfect harmony of fresh, tangy, and savory flavors that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe invites you to enjoy an easy yet impressive meal that’s bursting with personality. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become one of your go-to favorites too!
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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki combine tender, flavorful ground chicken meatballs seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon zest, served alongside a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt and cucumber. Perfect as a healthy and easy Mediterranean-inspired main dish, these meatballs can be cooked on the stovetop or baked, delivering juicy, aromatic bites every time.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, red onion, garlic, chopped dill, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Form the mixture into 16 small, evenly sized meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, arrange the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes until cooked through.
- Prepare the tzatziki sauce: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeezed dry), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and salt. Stir well, then taste and adjust the seasoning to preference. Chill the sauce until ready to serve.
- Serve: Plate the warm meatballs with a side of homemade tzatziki sauce. These meatballs are delicious served over rice or tucked into pita bread with fresh veggies for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- These meatballs freeze well before cooking or after cooking, making them great for meal prep.
- You can substitute ground turkey or beef if preferred, but keep seasoning quantities the same.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of chili flakes to the tzatziki sauce.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
